Erica Frazier of Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals came up from Charlotte in 2017 for what was supposed to be one summer at Eagles Nest – and never left. She now helps oversee a portfolio of more than 700 High Country homes, and in this conversation she gets refreshingly candid about what short-term rental ownership around Banner Elk actually looks like.

If you own a place up here or you're thinking about it, this one's worth a listen.

Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals

Hosted by:
Jeff Hamm
Banner Elk Realtor
https://bannerelkliving.com/best-banner-elk-nc-real-estate-agent/

Banner Elk Living
https://bannerelkliving.com/

Hosted & Produced by:
Jeff Hamm
Elevate Land & Realty
486 Main St W
Banner Elk, NC 28604
(980) 422-6069
https://bannerelkliving.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bannerelkliving/

In this episode of Banner Elk Living, host Jeff Hamm sits down with Allison Schön of Elevate Land & Realty – the high country's top-producing agent so far in 2026. Allison shares how a friend's "crazy" idea to develop a mountain called Eagles Nest launched her real estate career over a decade ago, and how she's watched the community grow into one of the most sought-after destinations in the North Carolina High Country. She also gives listeners an inside look at one truly one-of-a-kind listing: the Glass House on Silver Eagle, a stunning mountain-modern home with walls of glass and unbeatable sunset views.

Jeff and Allison also dig into what makes Banner Elk such a strong investment market, including how short-term rentals perform season to season (hint: the busy season runs Memorial Day through ski season!), plus a full tour of Eagles Nest amenities – from the Elk River and outdoor amphitheater concerts to Epic Chop House, the Eagles Nest Winery, and the Beech Mountain connector that puts you six minutes from the slopes. Whether you're dreaming of a mountain getaway or considering an investment property, this episode is packed with local insight.

Allison Schön
Elevate Land & Realty
486 Main St W
Banner Elk, NC 28604
(704) 577-0939
https://www.instagram.com/allisonschoen_realtor/

Videos mentioned:

The Eagle’s Nest Glass House
294 Silver Eagle Trail
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Watch: https://youtu.be/tnXemlhC0tQ?si=0N8qLIZVH3S3JiU7

Sunset Ridge
200 Fernwood Trail
Elk Park, NC 28604
Watch: https://youtu.be/RoB0M9syGuY?si=_lwlzSMr9MOz7wOd

In this episode, Jeff interviews Michael Sharpe, the owner of Blowing Rock Woodworks.

Michael shares his journey from a career in furniture transportation to owning a woodworking business, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the unique products they offer.

He emphasizes the importance of relationships in business and shares valuable lessons learned as a small business owner.

The conversation also touches on future aspirations for the company and a love for the high country region.

Blowing Rock Woodworks
251 Dick Watson Rd
Deep Gap, NC 28618
(336) 504-8899

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Highlights of the High Country Podcast

Produced by:

Epic Journey Media